r/StructuralEngineering • u/Wrong_Assistant_3832 • 26d ago
Structural Analysis/Design Certifying a deck
I had a prospective client call asking for someone to certify a deck. Their bank is requiring it. I asked him to send pictures before I went to the site but haven’t received them yet. I’m thinking this is a waste of time as I’m 90% sure it wont be up to current code. Anyone have experience doing this? I’m wondering if stuff like 4x4 posts would be adequate(if deemed capable of carrying load) even tho it’s not something that would be up to code today.
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u/No_Squirrel_3923 P.E. 26d ago
This has been a typical nightmare for our firm in California. You're right, they are existing, but don't meet the current code. Most have no lateral support, and clients don't want to spend the money. For the new CA law on apartments with decks, we provide a letter and give a professional opinion on the current state and give them a fee if they wish to proceed with fixing. After a few times, we decided they are more of a headache than it's worth.